Meet the Trailblazing Women Bodybuilders of South India Challenging Feminine Norms | CNN

CNN

In the beautiful coastal state of Kerala, India, photographer Keerthana Kunnath is showcasing strong women through her lens. She captures them flexing their muscles against stunning backdrops of ocean waves and palm trees, dressed in flowing dresses or stylish bikinis.

Although Kerala is Kunnath’s home, female bodybuilding is often viewed with skepticism. Society here generally expects women to follow traditional, feminine roles. After discovering the Instagram account of a bodybuilder, Kunnath became intrigued by these women. They have chosen to pursue bodybuilding despite societal and familial pressures.

Kunnath shared, “It’s not common in our area. I can’t really call it a ‘community’ yet because it’s just starting, and there are only a few women involved.”

Over the past few years, more women in India have gained recognition in bodybuilding. They are now earning professional status from the International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation. Deepika Chowdury paved the way as the first Indian woman to achieve this status in 2016.

Initially, Kunnath was drawn to Kalaripayattu, a martial art from Kerala. However, her focus shifted when she noticed women gravitating towards bodybuilding. Through her series “Not What You Saw,” Kunnath has photographed these inspiring women. Many of them know each other through social media but often do not meet until Kunnath connects them for her project.

Bhumika Kumar, a 22-year-old from Kochi, is one of the bodybuilders Kunnath has photographed. She shared how her passion for athletics was stifled during her childhood when her parents wouldn’t let her play outside. But now, she is thriving in local competitions, winning titles like Miss Kerala.

Kumar recalls, “My parents didn’t allow me to play with other children. I was physically inactive and lacked stamina.” Today, she watches training videos online and finally joined a gym after convincing her family.

Another inspiring figure is Sandra A S, who has been training for four years and now coaches aspiring bodybuilders. She aims to shatter stereotypes and qualify for international competitions.

Kunnath aims to portray her subjects not just as bodybuilders, but as heroic figures, influenced by the images of Indian goddesses she admired as a child. Collaborating with a local stylist, she chose muted tones and elegant fabrics, focusing on strength without sexualizing their achievements.

Kunnath is struck by her subjects’ strength and softness, saying, “They are strong, confident girls, yet they exhibit a gentle side.” She points out that society often misjudges muscular women, interpreting their strength as intimidating.

Throughout her project, Kunnath has committed to supporting these women by attending their competitions and taking their professional photos. She believes the stories of these bodybuilders deserve to be celebrated as they carve out their place in a male-dominated sport.